Sharon Lynn Nelson and Perry's Fatal Marriage
What drives a person to manipulate and deceive their spouse? How can a seemingly normal relationship turn into a web of lies and tragedy?
In Gregg Olsen's book American Black Widow, we delve into the complex and disturbing relationship between Sharon Lynn Nelson and Perry. This true crime story unravels the shocking events that led to Perry's mysterious disappearance and death.
Keep reading to discover how Sharon Lynn Nelson and Perry's marriage went from calculated courtship to a chilling mystery that would leave a community reeling.
Sharon's Pursuit of Perry Nelson
Sharon Lynn Nelson and Perry's relationship was a complex web of manipulation, deceit, and tragedy. After her divorce from Mike Fuller in 1976, Sharon set her sights on Perry Nelson, a wealthy ophthalmologist she identified through church records. Let's dive into the tumultuous journey of Sharon Lynn Nelson and Perry's connection and its mysterious end.
The Calculated Courtship
Sharon's approach to Perry was far from spontaneous. She carefully selected him based on his financial status and personal circumstances, including his alimony and child support obligations. Her pursuit was calculated and deliberate, aiming to secure a life of wealth and excitement that she'd always dreamed of.
Sharon's charm offensive worked wonders on Perry. She managed to convince him to leave his wife, Julie, and pursue a relationship with her instead. It's a testament to Sharon's persuasive abilities that she could entice Perry away from his existing marriage and into a new one with her in 1977.
Trouble in Paradise
However, the marriage between Sharon and Perry was far from idyllic. Financial strains quickly became apparent, exacerbated by Sharon's mismanagement of Perry's business finances. But money wasn't the only issue plaguing their relationship.
Sharon's fidelity, or lack thereof, became a significant source of tension. She engaged in multiple affairs, including one with Buzz Reynolds, a man with connections to Perry. Sharon showed little regard for the potential consequences of her actions or the betrayal she was committing.
The Mysterious Disappearance
The most shocking chapter in Sharon and Perry's story came with Perry's sudden disappearance and eventual death. The circumstances surrounding this event were shrouded in mystery and raised numerous red flags.
On the night of his disappearance, Perry was sober, which thwarted an initial plan involving a tire iron that Sharon's lover had intended to use to end Perry's life. Sharon's behavior following Perry's disappearance was notably detached. She didn't participate in search efforts, raising suspicions among those close to the situation, including Dr. Mitchell.
Suspicious Circumstances
Several elements of Perry's disappearance and death raised eyebrows. His car was found in a river, but crucial items like his papers and briefcase were missing. Sharon's reaction to suggestions that Perry might still be alive seemed overly emotional and insincere, especially given that she knew of his death.
Adding to the suspicion, Sharon quickly moved to dispose of Perry's firearms after his disappearance. This action seemed odd, particularly given their financial difficulties and rumors that Perry might have fled to Mexico.
The Aftermath
The investigation into Perry's death was swift, and his remains were quickly cremated. This rapid sequence of events led to skepticism about Sharon's claims regarding his death. Despite swirling rumors about her involvement in Perry's untimely passing, Sharon remained silent.
Initially, Perry's death was ruled an accident, allowing Sharon to collect a substantial life insurance payout. However, as time passed and more details emerged, insurance companies began to recognize Sharon's role in Perry's death.
The Unraveling of Sharon's Web
Sharon's involvement in Perry's death didn't come to light immediately. It took time, investigation, and ultimately, her own confession to reveal the truth. The gradual unraveling of Sharon's web of lies and deceit is a testament to the persistence of those seeking justice for Perry.
The Pizza Hut Confession
In a surprising turn of events, Sharon's carefully constructed facade crumbled in an unexpected setting - a Pizza Hut. In an unguarded moment, she revealed the extent of her involvement in Perry's death. She admitted that Gary Starr Adams, her lover, had convinced her that Perry was "out of the picture."
This confession marked the beginning of the end for Sharon. It led to her arrest by the Thornton Police Department and ultimately resulted in her imprisonment, along with Gary Adams.
The Impact on Family and Community
Sharon's actions had far-reaching consequences, affecting not just Perry and his immediate family, but the broader community as well. Perry's children and relatives felt a profound sense of betrayal and disturbance. The unexpected and deeply moving passing of their father led to profound grief and an earnest search for comfort.
The community, too, was left reeling from Sharon's actions. Feelings of distrust, disgust, and resentment towards Sharon became common. Her insensitive and manipulative character had a lasting impact on those around her, from the Philippi family's disparaging remarks about her character to the community's warnings against assisting her.
In the end, Sharon's relationship with Perry Nelson serves as a cautionary tale. What began as a calculated pursuit of wealth and excitement ended in tragedy, leaving a wake of devastation that affected families, communities, and lives for years to come.